The Dallas Wings are starting to look whole again as key players return to training camp, building chemistry ahead of the 2026 WNBA season. All-Star guard Arike Ogunbowale has reported back to the team after missing much of camp while competing overseas, though fans will need to be patient a little longer before seeing her on the court.
Ogunbowale sat out Sunday's preseason matchup against the Las Vegas Aces at the Moody Center in Austin due to a right ankle injury. Still, her presence stateside is a significant boost for head coach Jose Fernandez and his staff, who have been navigating delayed arrivals throughout camp.
The Wings are also welcoming back forward Jessica Shepard, a key free agency addition, and guard Costanza Verona, both of whom missed time due to overseas commitments. While Verona didn't suit up Sunday, Shepard made her Wings debut, giving fans a glimpse of what's to come.
Dallas opened training camp on April 19, leaving just 20 days to prepare for their season opener against the Indiana Fever on May 9. Fernandez noted that the coaching staff has been diligent about sharing all camp material with players who were away, ensuring everyone stays on the same page.
However, the Wings are still awaiting the arrival of Awak Kuier, the 6-foot-6 center selected second overall in the 2021 WNBA draft. Kuier, who hails from Finland, sat out the 2023 season but is expected to be a key contributor this year. She's been in Finland for the past two weeks waiting for her consulate appointment, but Fernandez confirmed she should arrive in Texas in time for Tuesday's practice at College Park Center in Arlington.
"Tuesday's practice, we'll really start our preparation for our regular season," Fernandez said, signaling that the team's full roster is nearly assembled and ready to jell.
